The IDA has agreed to encourage future industries, planning to establish a base in Galway, to set up on lands owned by the authority in Oranmore.

“Effectively, they will regard Oranmore as an extension of Parkmore, and this will help to avoid adding to the terrible traffic problems that workers on that side of the city endure every day,” said Deputy Noel Grealish.

The Galway West Independent TD secured the commitment at a meeting in Dublin last week with IDA officials, including Chief Executive Martin Shanahan.

Deputy Grealish pointed out that there was 67 acres, or 27 hectares, of serviced land held by the IDA at the Oranmore Science & Technology Park.

“There is planning permission there for a biopharmaceutical manufacturing campus, but Mr Shanahan acknowledged that that is not now going to happen. The permission has been there for years but has not been taken up, and it is due to run out in 2020. They won’t be seeking a renewal.

“What he has agreed now is that they are going to use Oranmore as an extension of Parkmore and any new industries coming to Galway will be based in Oranmore.

“This is really good news, both for the people of Oranmore and the surrounding area, but also for the 10,000 people working in Parkmore as it will hopefully help relieve the awful traffic congestion around that area,” added Deputy Grealish.